The working agreement began in 2003 following the Red Wings’ 42-year affiliation with the Baltimore Orioles from 1961- 2002 and a 33-year partnership with the St. Louis Cardinals from 1928-60.

“The Minnesota Twins is an organization that develops quality major leaguers through their minor league system,” Silver said. “While that clearly does not guarantee us a winner every year, we believe that the development bodes well for us in most years. The Twins believe in the same thing we do — teaching these quality players to play hard, build good character, and be role models on the field and in the community. We are excited to renew our working agreement and we look forward to the conclusion of this fantastic season and the next two years.”

“The Red Wings organization and the City of Rochester have been very good to us and this is the place we want to be,” said Twins General Manager Terry Ryan. “Ownership, the front-office staff, and, of course, the fans have always made us feel very special and welcome in Rochester.”

Good move for the Twins, who want to stay in the International League; while there are still several Triple-A affiliations up, we expect many (Houston/OKC, Los Angeles/Albuquerque) to renew. However, if the Toronto Blue Jays do indeed enter into a new PDC with the Buffalo Bisons (Class AAA; International League), that leaves the Mets to find a new affiliate — and Rochester would have been a natural partner. (H/T: La Velle E. Neal III at the Star Tribune.)

The team’s affiliation with the Beloit Snappers (Low Class A; Midwest League), however, may not be a sure thing: we hear there’s a chance of a serious shakeup in Midwest League affiliations for next season. A lot is riding on one particular affiliation; if it changes, we could see four or five teams shifting parents.

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